Transposable elements as dynamic regulators of skeletal muscle development, regeneration and aging.

Meijun Song, Wenjie Duan, Duomin Liang, Dinghui Dai, Li Li, Hongping Zhang

Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

Transposable elements (TEs), once considered "junk" DNA, constitute nearly half of the mammalian genome and can replicate and reposition within the host genome. Advances in omics technologies have improved the capture and annotation of TEs, enabling functional studies. Here, we review TEs classification, structure, regulation, and annotation methods. TEs act as regulatory elements or non-coding RNAs, influencing gene networks and cell fate. While once thought inactive in somatic cells, recent evidence suggests that TEs remain transcriptionally active in various tissues, contributing to function. Focusing on skeletal muscle development, pathological regeneration, and aging, we discuss TEs expression patterns and their potential functional. TEs exhibit stage-specific expression during muscle development and are implicated in muscle-related diseases. Building on the transposon theory of aging, we summarize the increased TEs transcription and chromatin accessibility in aging muscle. Understanding TEs in skeletal muscle biology provides insights into muscle development and age-related functional decline.

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Research summary

Transposable elements (TEs) play a significant role in skeletal muscle development, regeneration, and aging. The paper is relevant as it explores the functional implications of TEs in the context of aging and muscle decline, addressing potential mechanisms that could contribute to understanding and possibly mitigating age-related functional decline.

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